Another Week Goes By

It was a pretty good week too. I didn't do too much outlandishly fun, but I had a good week. Ryan kicked my booty on Monday. I was sore for days!

We had a luncheon yesterday at work for Thanksgiving. One of the guys made brisket that smelled awesome. I am sure it tasted great. But, again, people seemed shocked I didn't eat meat. Um, we have had 2 or 3 luncheons before this and every time, they seemed shocked I don't eat meat. The same people..... And I get the same questions. Why, how long, how do you get protein, why do you still eat eggs and drink milk..... are you against all meat or what? People, people, I don't mind talking about my vegetarianism to you (well, now it is more like restricted meat eating since I do occasionally eat fish -- had to come back to Sushi.....). Just don't look at me like I am from Mars. I am not against eating meat, I just prefer not to do it. If organic/free range chicken was cheaper, I'd eat it. But, well, it is cheaper to keep it out of my diet. I don't care if someone else wants to eat meat in front of me. Your choice. Mike does, and I don't run screaming for the door. He even has been allowed to keep meat in my freezer. Nobody makes a big deal when I turn down asparagus and we ALL know how I feel about asparagus!!! So, yes, I drink milk and eat eggs but I only buy Organic (plus, it is free of the hormones, which is a whole other story!). Yes, occasionally leather slips onto my body, occasionally I will accidentally eat a soup that has beef broth instead of veggie broth. Don't do the "AHA!" thing. This is my choice to do my one thing for me. Okay, I got that off my chest.....

This weekend is going to be a lot more lowkey than last weekend. Tonight I am cooking dinner for Mike and I . I expect we will watch the Netflix copies of Curb your Enthusiasm and just have a nice evening in. I am not sure what else is planned for the weekend but I will be dropping off food to Jen for her church's food drive. I feel blessed and I know that others aren't so blessed so the food I deliver will help a family have a nice Thanksgiving dinner. I adopted an "Angel" from the Angel tree and I am looking forward to buying dollhouses and girl clothing. She is 5 :). I am pretty sure she is going to get a little Weeble doll play set. ( Mom, did you find my Weebles from when I was a kid?). Yes, I still love the Weebles. They apparently had a Haunted House and Ghost Weeble........ um, how did I miss out on that one, Mom and Dad??? :)

Have a wonderful weekend. Congrats to Jen on her 2 lb weight loss this week. She is such a rock star! And I love that I have someone who will email me and just ask about my workout schedule for the day (cardio tonight, by the way). She keeps me in line too. And she sends the BEST Weight Watchers recipes my way.

Later!

Happy Friday

We had the day off today since it is Veteran's day, so this morning was spent going through a hard (but awesome) workout and then a trip to the nail salon. I was over in that area anyway and since my nails looked like crap, I needed to treat myself. The lady who did my nails put me in just total bliss. The massage she gave my arms was fantastic! I really think I almost fell asleep. I didn't get my toes done, but that will probably be later next week. I didn't think I had the time!

I found the cutest thing at PetsMart -- a cat sleeping bag. Seriously..... Nope didn't buy it. That would have been a waste of money. Those cats have access to every blanket and pillow in my apartment. They don't need a special one for them. Speaking of cats, the carpet is supposed to be cleaned today, so more cat herding took place. I had been in and out so the did get to roam some. But they are back in the bathroom.

I think we are about ready to go. My Aunt Gail and her friend Karen are visiting from CA and we are about to go to high tea at a restaurant in Plano. I really have no idea how this became a tradition, but somehow, someway, we always go to high tea when Gail or my other Aunt Polly come to visit. It is fun to go be girly for a while. Oh, and Gail brought pictures of Chloe so I am very happy!!! She has gotten so big and is so darn cute!!! (Chloe, not Gail...... not saying Gail isn't cute, I just wasn't talking about her in that particular moment...... And plus, do you really think I would tell the world my Aunt has gotten so darn big.....??? )

So, happy Friday! Later.

People are so on the ball......

Well, not really. I was expecting to get my carpets cleaned today and well, guess what. The darn order was never called in by the leasing office. And I am sure it was that freakin leasing agent who wasn't too on the ball when I went in to sign my lease (Yes, Jen, the same one who said "it took you long enough"). Not very happy just because I had to lock Simon and Sierra in the bathroom all day. Now I have to do it again. However it did lead to the funniest text message of the day -- Mike asking how he was supposed to get the cats back into the bathroom. Just picturing him herding the cats. Anyway. I expect it done this week and now I am also trying to think of something else they can do for me.....

And I went to vote today at my local polling place. The polling table was slow as molasses and seriously, there really weren't that many people. I think the old lady behind the table got overwhelmed because she just got up and walked away. Seriously. Without saying a word. They were rigging lights (it is really kind of dark in the Village Country Club) so I can understand some delay. But say, hey, this guy will be right with you, I am not the normal polling person and thanks for voting. Don't just pick your booty up off the chair and walk away. I was 2nd in line and it took me 30 minutes (all together -- but the bulk should be actually voting, not checking in!!!). Okay, that is off my chest. I voted, worked out and now I just need to relax and watch a little Election day coverage.

Later!

Icky Migraine

Well, this morning I woke up with a migraine and of course, I didn't go into work today. I had no migraine stuff in the house, just regular Advil. While that is good for a regular headache, it doesn't cut it with the heavy headache. So Mike sweetly brought me some Excedrin Migraine and boy did that do the trick (thanks baby!!!). We hung out today and well, I am now addicted to "Top Chef" on Bravo. I am happy I found it early in the second season, so I am actually all caught up now. So far, I want to try all the recipes they create on this show. I am sure I can modify them to be vegetarian and a little healthier. I even have a favorite I think will make it all the way. So, now I am addicted to Top Chef and the Office. My friends will have to just put duct tape over my mouth to get me to shut up about them :).

My headache was gone about mid-day and while I was still feeling kind of weird, I went ahead and worked out with Ryan. I told him I had been sick so he put me through a modified workout. It still hurts, but it wasn't as tough as he normally pushes me. We did measurements today and well, I did actually go up in body fat (only a percent, no worries), but I did loose inches (and about one lb). All is good, however I learned I actually need to eat more. I lost muscle. I'll reset and go from here. I don't want to loose that muscle! All in all I was happy though.

So, that was my day. It was great to hang out while Mike studied. And to get him addicted to another tv show with me :). Also, remember to VOTE tomorrow. No matter what party you choose to support, exercise that right to vote!!! My opinion is that you can't complain if you don't voice your choice at the polls.

Good night!

Never Mind...

Not sure what the frak happened, but apparently Coach Fran can't lead us to victory in the all important conference games! The guys played great, but it just came up short. So, well, never mind. The game was way too close and I always hate that. It leaves me screaming at the TV. And that just leads to a sore throat.

So, it is time to go work out now. Have a great Sunday!

A&M

A&M plays OU tonight. I promise that I will not be too much of a pain when we when tonight Dad............ :)

Hope your Saturday was awesome. I watched movies, played around the house and really nothing else. But it was all good.

Catch up on the week

While I am waiting for Mike to come over, I thought I would write a little to catch folks up on the week. Nothing too huge happened. It is a full moon coming because the women in the office went crazy again. Seriously, I can ALWAYS tell when it is about to get to full status. They get more witchy (with a b) and evil. Amazing. I ignore them. Today I had training so I was out of the office. I took a class at the OSHA Ed Center which was pretty cool. I did laugh because they thought since I worked for OSHA I actually knew answers. I kept having to remind them that I had only been there 6 months. It was a record keeping course and actually stuff I had done at Canon. But it was nice to meet new people and get away from evil women (who, actually claim to be Christian. That is another posting all together - nasty people who claim to love the Lord. Really, never would have guessed with the way you live your life......). Funny thing about the class. I sat next to a woman who works at Rent a Center, which is where Mike's sister works. And of course, this woman knew Brenda. It was random and very funny.

I am not sure what we are doing tonight but I am getting very hungry and I hope he gets here soon. And tomorrow is Cosmic Cafe with Jen. I look forward to introducing her to a new and fabulous place. Well, I haven't been there in a few years, but I do remember it as fabulous! Congrats to Jen on her 4.6 lbs. And to Angela too!! I am so proud!! It is great to see the success of friends and I know she is very happy with it. (And Jen, I did the cardio today like I had planned!).

Well that is it. I am alive, happy and right now just very hungry.... :)

Later and Happy Weekend!

All the scary movies!

Today was spent enjoying my new digital cable. Apparently it is cheaper for me to have 150 channels than standard cable. So, here we are. I have lots of channels and since we are so close to Halloween, I am happy with all the scary movies. And, yeah, On Demand programming is pretty awesome. They even have exercise "videos" that I can pull up in the morning before work. But that isn't the highlight of my weekend. :)

Last night, Michelle's work had a Halloween party and so I went along with her to that. It was a lot of fun and I wore the same costume as I did last weekend. Only difference was that I braided my hair instead of having it in pony tails. Wow, big change, I know. It was a lot of fun and since I hadn't seen Michelle in forever, it was a really good time.

Okay, I think I might actually work out since I have been a couch potato all day! Later

Argh!!

Okay, the week has been crazy. First of all, though, HAPPY BIRTHDAY JON!!!! My "baby" brother turned 29 today. Yipes!!!

So, Monday had way too much drama at work. I was looking out the window and I saw a firetruck and ambulance pull up. Then another fire truck, and then 3 more more firetrucks. Oh, and then 2 Homeland Security Police cars......... what the frick is going on?????? I am looking on line, calling Mike asking if there is anything on the news -- nothing!!! So, well, I guess we'll just keep looking out the window. The firemen rope off the area -- yeah, not a good sign -- and then move back about 100 feet. Um..... what about us???? Turns out there are some "suspicious" packages outside our building. Wow, that is a new one for me!! The bomb squad comes out and I get to watch the bomb robot. Actually, kind of cool. However, my favorite was the guy in the blue hazmat suit. He (or she, couldn't tell!!) looked like an alien. They closed off the block, closed our parking lot, and all this was still going on about 3:15. I am trying to figure out at what point do I need to call Ryan to let him know I was stuck.... I called him and then 10 minutes later they opened the streets. So, yeah, I went to work out. It was weird -- it was pretty stressful seeing all this going on outside the window but I guess inside I felt things were going to be okay. And it was. We really had to joke about it, but it is very scary to see these things happening outside the window. I did like Mom's comment "Why are you still in the building?". I couldn't tell you why we didn't evacuate........... but I just trusted they knew what they were doing!!!

Tuesday I drove to San Antonio for a meeting with Valero for some training incentives that we have going on. The meeting went well, but it was raining on my way home today!! I left San Antonio at 2:30 and got home at 7:45. Austin traffic was nuts, rain was nuts and I really just wanted a transporter to take me from there to here. I am definitely happy to be home. It is, however, time for bed. Yes, I realize it isn't even 9 yet. I am tired.

Later!!!

Friday Afternoon.........

It looks like a tree has exploded on my desk. I have files everywhere. I think my mind is about to shut down! It is 2:30, so I really don't have that much time left at the job, but I don't want to waste the afternoon. I think people have decided to act up -- don't know why, but they have. I have a couple of employee issues happening. Obviously I can't tell you, but trust me, they are the height of stupidity. I am definitely ready for the weekend.

So, nothing to report. My evening will be very boring. Grocery store, gym, movie. Serious party animal, I know. I am going to bake. I found a recipe I am going to try out for a thing called Chocolate Pumpkin Amazingness. It is vegan, but we won't tell my guinea pigs who I give it too!!! If it is good, I will post the recipe here. We are going to a Halloween party tomorrow night at Jen's cousin Jen's house. I am really looking forward to it! I have to say, I want Halloween to get here quickly because Chloe has a pumpkin costume and I am dying to see her. She is cute already. And babies in Halloween costumes are cute. So, cute Chloe in a pumpkin costume -- the cuteness might just be overwhelming.

Okay, really, I want to be outside playing. Now. But I can't -- darn it! I have a couple of more things to do and then I will be able to cost. Might as well be productive while I am here! Later!!!

Getting Chilly

I really am loving this weather, but when you have the fire alarm go off in your place of work and you have to stand outside in it for 30 minutes, it is not so good! Yes, we had another fire alarm go off today. At least I am only on the 6th floor. I didn't bring a coat to work since I was just walking from the car to the office -- or so I thought. I am wearing long sleeves, but very thin material. I did borrow a jacket, but I was still freezing! There was no fire, but an alarm was tripped. Fun, fun. And then we have to come back into the building and all go through security again. So, 9 floors worth of people try to squeeze back through the metal detector and the x-ray machine. My toes are now finally thawed!

I found out today that I am going to San Antonio next week for a training thing so I am going through the process of working with the travel department and getting a corporate card. Hopefully it won't be too much of a hassle! I will only be gone Tuesday and Wednesday, but it will be good to meet the big players in the National Office training group.

Well, that is it for now. I have to get back to work! Have a great day!

Kim

Funny thing

As I was walking back from lunch yesterday something caught my eye on a car facing the street. I looked down and it was an arm sticking out of a trunk. Obviously one of the fake Halloween arms! I laughed so hard. Someone has a good sense of humor!!! I think if I see it again and I happen to have my cell phone, I will get a pick to post. It was pretty random and made me smile!

Okay, nothing much today. Just working like a busy little beaver. The day has gone pretty quickly. And it is nice and pretty outside. Love it!

Have a great Tuesday!

Rainy Days!

I did not want to get out of bed this morning. It was rainy and chilly and perfect to cuddle with the kitties under the comforter! But, here I am. Oh well. I have lots to do, so it is good I am here!

This weekend was pretty low key. I made dinner for Mike on Saturday night and we watched DVDs. The chili turned out pretty good, although I did forget to get eggs to make the corn bread. So, with the lack of neighbors to borrow an egg from and no desire to head back to the grocery store, we did without corn bread. I may have to make beans so I can use the cornbread mix. There was plenty of food, so I guess it didn't really matter!

Other than that, it was pretty low key. Now I am headed full force into my week. Things are all good. And there is a Halloween party this weekend so that is something to look forward to! If is at the house of Jen's cousin, Jen. I have a Catholic school girl skirt that actually fits again, so I might be doing that costume again this year. I change my mind 50 times before the actual parties, so I might be wearing cat ears. But the object is to dress for Halloween as cheaply as possible:). And I already have the shirt and skirt for the school girl outfit!

Have a wonderful, rainy Monday! Later!

Saturday

We decided not to do the dance class last night but ended up at Javaletto instead. It was probably good we didn't dance because I was in the beginning stages of a headache. Relaxing was what I needed. Mia, Jen and I then decided to go to Snuffers and I actually had the cheese fries. Oh, those things are so good. It was split between the three of us, so any harm was minimal :). I came back home and watched "Final Destination 3". It was Friday the 13th so a scary movie seemed appropriate!

I realized as I am watching the A&M game that I haven't been as rabid as I was last year. No calling for the head of Coach Fran, no crying on the keyboard when we lost to Texas Tech. Not sure why! They do seem to be doing better this year and they are really looking good today against Missouri. Missouri is a ranked team and it would be awesome if the team kept up the momentum and beat them. I won't say anything else as not to jinx them!!

Well that is about it. My most exciting thing today was a Pilates class with the crazy pilates teacher. She was trying to be funny but really, she seemed to enjoy the pain we were in. She was a sub and since this is the first time I have been to this class I don't know if the permanent teacher is just as nuts...... I am cooking dinner tonight for Mike. I am making chili although I thought it would be a little cooler tonight. Oh well. I am still making it. Have a wonderful evening!!!

Later. (Yes, the maroon font is on purpose!!!)

Random Tidbits for Friday

1.) The Office was super funny last night. I am sure I will be watching it again soon with Mike. I usually end up watching them 3 or 4 times. Nerd alert, I know!

2.) The weather is perfect. I am getting out of here at 2:30. No special reason. Friday afternoons are slow, so might as well take some PTO. I will enjoy the weather to the fullest extent possible.

3.) I am doing the Nike Hip Hop Dance Funk class (or whatever it is called!) tonight again. I am meeting Mia and Jen. This will be good since the only thing missing from Wednesday night's class was someone to look at and laugh when I was fumbling. We are then going to have dinner!

4.) We did a re-assessment last night and while I haven't really lost any weight (a lb), my body fat % went down and I have lost more inches. He said I actually might not loose much more since I am building that muscle. It is fine with me. As long as the body fat and inches continue to go down, I am good!

5.) Really, that is all. I got paid today so that is a good thing. The sun is shinning and life is pretty darn good. Plus, I leave the office in 1 hr. 45 min. If this place was like the fictional office I love, I might never want to leave. sigh :). I have stuff to do, I think I am more itching to get outside and enjoy the weather..........

Have a wonderful weekend and I will talk to you later!!!!!

Darn it, I need TIVO

Okay, so I started watching "30 Rock" last night and since it has Tina Fey, I know I am going to love it (which, by the way, I did). It had some great laugh out loud moments, and Tina is just a genius. Or so I think! Anyway, "America's Next Top Model" is on at the same time and that is my favorite mind candy show. Now, I can watch the end of ANTM, but the beginning 1/2 hour is always more fun. And tonight, there is the Office, which I will always watch before any other show. But I might want to catch "Ugly Betty" every once in a while. And since I record "The Office" for Mike, I can't just fully record "Ugly Betty". Oh, what a dilemma :). You would think they didn't replay reruns ad nauseum later on!!!

I did go to the dance class last night - it is Nike Rock Star Far East Funk --- or something like that. Jen can correct me! She was the one who told me about it in the first place. 24 Hour is holding these classes at various locations and my gym just happens to have it. However the class is at 8:15 at night. But I went and had a blast. I didn't need the extra cardio session afterwards because this class is actually designed to keep the heart rate up -- basically not like the other dance classes where you stop, learn the step, then go on. It was a lot of fun, but it is a lot of Hip Hop like moves and I have no rhythm. But I had fun so all was good.

Okay, that is pretty much it. I have to go back out to Mesquite at noon for more of the conference. At least I am getting away from the office!

Later!

No title..........

Not really much happened today. We had a conference in Mesquite for work. It was all pretty interesting. I had a brief part -- talking about training -- but mostly I was there to meet people and put names to faces. That was pretty cool. I am going back out there tomorrow afternoon as well. More training information. Let me tell you, they are on a training push. That should actually make everyone feel better. We are working to make sure Americans can go to work and be safe. It is kind of cool that I have some kind of part in that! Okay, very random thought.

I am SO happy the weather is turning cooler and staying that way. I have the windows open and it is so nice. My electric bill from last month was super duper high and I was not happy!! Oh well. With the heat, I guess it was expected. Still didn't like it though.

The plan tonight is to watch some tv and then go to the gym for a dance class and possibly more cardio -- depends on how much the dance class gets my heart rate up. Yes, again, I am a dork. :) Have a wonderful evening!

Columbus Day

We had the day off today so I got to spend a nice day relaxing. Slept in, took the mid-day Spin class (yeah, I know most people don't think of that as relaxing.....) and then I got to see my magic finger massage therapist. I am guessing that is why I am so sore right now! I know I have said that previous Spin teachers kicked my booty, well this one definitely kicked my booty. I actually only made it through 45 minutes!!! Granted, I was also pushing the resistance up more so I guess I really had a hand in my own butt kicking. It felt good though! After my massage, I spent some time with Mike before he headed out to dinner with his mom. It was a pretty good day and I think I might even turn in early.

This weekend was good. I had dinner with Mia on Friday night. Sushi -- always good! Then we found our new favorite place. It is call Javalatto and it is a coffee, tea, pastry, and gelatto place. And the atmosphere is wonderful. I ordered a latte and a mint chocolate chip gelatto to share with Mia. The guy forgot to charge for the gelatto and then said it was on him. That was very cool! Of course, free food will always make us go back :). Yeah, we were going to go back anyway, but that helped seal the deal!

Okay, time to close it all down and start to wind down. Later!

Spin Class Saves the Day

Yesterday was not a good day mentally for me. I was cranky, irritated and wanted to kick someone in the head with my heel. I freely admit it. I made it home okay and was already going to hit the Spin class that evening, but realized I really needed to go to get some aggression out. I had a teacher that I had never had before and truthfully, he didn't look like he could keep up with a class..... I figured he must be able to since he was an instructor, but thought it might not be a hard class. Oh, was I wrong. That was the hardest I had worked in a long while in a spin class. It felt great and afterwards, I was ready to clean up and just relax.

I am doing much better today and all is good. I have been able to get some stuff done and that feels good. It is Thursday and I am starting to get that end of week feeling though! I have Monday off for Columbus Day, so if I can make it until tomorrow afternoon, all will good.

Everybody have a great Thursday! Later.

It is too dang hot for fall

Seriously, 90 + degrees!! It is fall. Doesn't mother nature know that!!!??? Last week was perfect and now I sweat walking to the car again. Okay, so it isn't summer hot, but we should be breaking out the sweaters and cool fall outfits. The State Fair is going on and it definitely doesn't feel like Fair weather.

Work has gotten much busier in the last few days. Like I said before, this job is all cyclical. But I am learning a lot and that is good. I guess I should get my presentation ready for the Area Director meeting next week. Really, it isn't anything too interesting, but I have to do it anyway.

Well, that is it for today. The weekend was good, just seems like it was ages ago (even though this is Tuesday!). Have a great Tuesday!!!

Another Thursday

Today was my first day back in the office this week. It was kind of hard to get back into the swing of things. And, of course, the big things don't come until the end of the day. Basically I have to get Oil, Gas and petrochemical training set up for my safety people and present it in two weeks. I have help and the order is coming down from the National Office so it shouldn't be toooo hard. I have support. I just love how it goes "Hurry Up and Wait". And the lady I work under is on vacation for 2 weeks, so basically I am her for those 2 weeks. Not a problem because I can get very bored in that office if it is slow. Okay, I can get bored in any office when it is slow.

I worked out with Ryan tonight and then came back to rest and clear my mind. Oh, and the Office came on at 7:30. Tonight's was so funny!! And Jenna Fischer (Pam, the receptionist) will be on Jay Leno tonight, so I am going to be staying up past my bedtime (or maybe I will just record it.......). That is it. Ryan kicked my butt tonight -- it is amazing that I pay for pain. Tomorrow I am going to hit the gym before my hot date with Mia and Jen that night. Spending time with the girls is always good :). He and I are going back to two times a week, which is good. Saturday mornings are probably best suited for yoga class. Sunday mornings are suited for Spin class!

So, time to figure out bills since I get paid tomorrow. Figure out how much money I get to play around with this next two weeks!

later!

Trip to the Zoo

Okay, so the plan was to take a lot of pictures. Well, I remembered the CAMERA....... there is nothing I can do with it without the MEMORY CARD!!! I forgot to take it out of the computer after I downloaded Ghost Bar pictures. Yes, I could have bought a disposable camera but decided against it. So, you will just have to take my word on things :).

I really like how the Ft. Worth Zoo is laid out. They did a very good job. And the animals have plenty of space to roam considering they are pretty much in captivity. Mike fell in love with meerkats. It was so funny. He apparently has never watched "Meerkat Manor" on Animal Planet! These little guys were sooooo cute! And a little fatter than the ones you see on TV. That is understandable considering I am sure these zoo guys have a greater access to food! They had some obvious personalities too. Very funny little animals. At one point Mike asked if they would notice if we swiped one and he put it in his cargo pockets. Um, probably!!!

The big cats were so cool! I love cats -- big and small -- yeah, like you didn't know that :). And it is amazing that the little quirks that I see in my housecats can be seen in these huge cougars and mountain lions. Even the way they lay when sleeping. Very cool.

I did see my hippo - whole reason for the trip (just a reminder - mom adopted the hippo for me from the zoo for Christmas.) He was under water a lot, but I really don't blame him. He did pop the head out of water and I was able to say hi. i thought the enclosure for the hippos was too small but I guess they just need a large pool and not much more....... Another thing we saw was a bug exhibit. And in this bug exhibit were roaches!! Argh. I couldn't look, I had to get out of that building. I would be more than happy to give them a raid bomb to take care of those. They didn't give me any explanation as to why roaches shouldn't be anhilated but I am sure there is some reason they were in there. I love animals but come on. They aren't animals!!!

Well, tomorrow I have to go back to work. I think I am going to head to the gym tonight after some rest. There is a dance class that I will probably go to. I did spin last night after working out with Ryan in the morning. I figure tonight I can take a "fun" class for cardio. Not that spin isn't fun...... :) I hit a plateau and have a 2 week lb goal so it is time to get serious!

Later

The Joys of Days off

I was supposed to go to Galveston this week, but since that didn't pan out, I decided to take my pre-arranged days off anyway. While it might have been smart to save vacation days, it has been nice taking these days off. Yesterday I had lunch with Michelle and it has been forever since I have seen her! It was great to catch up. Mike and I went to see "Hollywoodland" last night. It was a good movie. Somewhat slow is places, but it turned out to be a good one. I didn't know much about George Reeves (the original Superman) and so you get some insite into his life. Not to much though -- kind of made me want to do more research!

Today will be just hanging out. I worked out this morning with Ryan. It is amazing 8:00 AM on Saturdays and I am full of pep. 8:00 AM on Tuesday and I want to stay in bed. It was kind of funny. But we made it through the work out and I am now ready to tackle the day. Mike and I do not have anything huge planned today. We were going to Ft. Worth, but that was before we remembered that he has school tonight. So, we are going to go tomorrow. I am going to go get my car serviced and we are just going to hang out. Nothing too huge. I think he has homework to do. So, tomorrow is the Ft. Worth Zoo. I plan to have lots of pictures!

Well, that is my Tuesday. Nice, happy and lazy. Well, not lazy if you count the beating I took by Ryan :).

Have a great day!

Thursday!

I am kind of tired today. I think the cloudy weather is affecting my pep. I am sure a good workout this afternoon will have me wired for the rest of the night. I am so freakin excited though about today. I do realize that everybody is probably aware now of my love for "The Office". Luckily, Mike finds it cute. I am up to date on their public appearances and I have pretty much watched them all. Even Mike is texting me saying "they are on right now". Love it. Anyway, the premiere is tonight for Season 3. If you call me between 7:30 and 8:00, be aware that I won't answer. I will even ignore Mike. And he knows it! (Well, actually, he will be at school, so I don't have to worry about ignoring him). This show is now my new "Friends" and "SATC". Okay, enough of that!

Workouts are going well. Ryan keeps finding new ways to torture me. But that is okay, because my jeans fit great.

Really my only major fun thing this week was Ghost Bar on Tuesday. Natalie's friend got us on the list -- it is probably my last time to ever get to do that since Natalie is moving this weekend. Oh, my cousin is getting married sometime -- not actually sure when they have set the wedding date, but I think it will be a perfect opportunity to get to go back to CA. Her boyfriend just proposed this weekend, so it might be a few weeks before they set the date. Mom says she got our Grandma's engagement ring.... so sweet :). Another cousin is getting married in Oct. No comment on how his mother found out....... But congrats to Steven on his upcoming nuptials!

Okay, I think that is it. I need to get some food into me or the blood sugar will crash and I will get cranky. Since my cube neighbor has decided to talk all day and not do any actual work, it might be important to up my tolerance level............

Later

My Saturday!

Okay, first of all HAPPY BIRTHDAY MOM!!!! We will be getting together later this afternoon to celebrate :)

So, today was Simon's visit to the vet. Sierra apparently thinks I am going to take off with her because she has been hiding since I got back. I haven't seen her since I got home 30 min. ago! Simon is perfectly healthy and was actually a very good boy at the vet's office. I did get some insite into why the two fur babies were deciding to sometimes use the comforter as a litter box. They didn't do it too often, but once is really enough. Yes, every once in awhile they would defecate on the bed. Sheets are easy to clean -- comforters have to go to the dry cleaner. The vet and I were going over reasons -- besides the litter pan being too dirty. It is now cleaned out 2x a day (if possible). But he also said the introduction of a new person (ie: Mike) could have triggered something. I knew that. But, this surprised me, that it could of been a positive thing in the kitties mind. Like, "I like you, welcome." If that was the case, I wish they would have brought him something else......... But, point is, all is good in the kitty world now. Hopefully.

Okay, time to finish cleaning the apartment. Later!

Okay, so I am a lazy bum

I am sure everyone is thinking that, so I will just come out and say it. Really, nothing fascinating happening in my life though. I work, work out, hang out with friends, see Mike. I haven't seen any great movies lately, although we did watch Scary Movie 4 last weekend and it made me laugh. If you are looking for some mind candy, that is a good movie to watch! The Office, Season Two came out on DVD yesterday and so I picked that up. It was late so I didn't have the all night, DVD watching marathon, but the episodes I did watch made me laugh out loud.

Work outs with Ryan are going well. I was a slacker last week and only worked out 3 x (only once by myself), but this week I am back full force. I woke up mega early yesterday morning (4AM......... the world looks different at that time) so I actually went to do cardio at 5 in the morning. There are more people than you think at the gym at 5 AM. This morning I did manage to stay in bed until the alarm went off. And then some. I don't know why I just decided I needed an early morning yesterday, but hopefully that has all passed. I didn't like the way I was feeling towards the end of the day! And I still had my Ryan work out yesterday, so I really could have used the sleep!

Okay, that is it. Really. Like I said, nothing too interesting has been happening. I have just been living life! And that is a good thing :).

Have a wonderful day!

The end of the week!

I was too busy celebrating the win of "The Office" at the Emmy's to write anything this week. Okay, not really but I needed to come up with a creative reason I hadn't written..... an excuse better than "I just didn't want to". It has been both the most uneventful week and the strangest week. I swear, people just kept changing on me. Not a bad thing, but a lot to take in on Wednesday morning. For example, one of my friends is moving to CA -- I knew she was, but she announced that it was in 3 weeks. Most of the people who read this know the situation, so there is no reason to rehash! One good thing about her moving is that she is going to go through all the clothes she doesn't want to take with her -- and I am the same size she is...... So, I will possibly getting some new clothes out of the deal :-). Okay, I will miss her too, but hey, this is a good way to remember her.

Ryan is moving to a new gym so I am following him to the new place in Highland Park. If you know of anyone who needs a trainer, let me know. He is awesome and I get referral "free sessions" if I send him people. There really wasn't that incentive at 24 Hour, but now that he is building his own business, I wanna help him out. We did re-assessments last night and it is still coming off. I hit the old goal number and now I am pushing it out 5 more lbs. Doing other things besides the elliptical has kept me motivated (like dance and yoga). I am working out, yet it doesn't really seem like it. Plus the dancing and yoga help those sore muscles I get from the Ryan work outs. He wants me to give him "before" and "after" shots. I have the before (I just really don't want to give them to him......), I just need the after! I think Mike is going to take some of me so I can get some good ones.

Well, that is it. I really should have taken today off. I just am not feeling it today. I guess I could still take off the afternoon. But might as well stay and build up my PTO. Mike and I are going to Angela's tomorrow afternoon to hang by the pool, but other than that, I have no idea what the weekend holds. He gets to meet some of my other friends (believe it or not, he hasn't met Jen and David yet!!!). He started school on Tuesday, so he will have physics homework. Yeah, that was never my subject so he is going to have no help from me!

Have an awesome Friday!!!

Emmy Observations

Steve Carell was ROBBED!!!! If "The Office" doesn't win, I will actually cry...... (This just in...... they just WON!!! Fabulous.)

Go Daily Show!!! Best Show and Writing. (Poor Mike is getting text everytime I see something exciting. )

The presentation by Stephen Colbert and Jon Stewart just cracked me up! "I lost to Barry Manilow!!!!" Guess you had to see it :-)

Jaime Pressley looked awesome! And she actually has curves. Beautiful dress! That is motivation to keep working out with Ryan!!! Spin class, here I come. I wish she would have won -- she is great on My Name is Earl. She was definitely my favorite tonight.

(And Mariska Hargitay was just stunning. She looked pretty awesome for just having a baby!)

Okay, that is it for now.

Lazy Sunday Afternoon

It is rainy today and it is wonderful. It has actually cooled things down for now. This weekend has been pretty good. Friday night I went to Denton to see Saints and Sinners. They were fabulous, as always. Saturday, my upstairs neighbor had a birthday party so we went to that. It was a lot of fun and she had tons of food! And she had birthday cake, which is always good!!! She had so much food left over so she brought some down for Mike and I. A lot of it is going back to Mike's place since there are 3 big guys there who need the food. Plus, some of it was chicken, so it isn't gonna get eaten here!!!

Today really has been lazy. I think I got out once to run an errand. I think it is time to curl up on the couch, read and enjoy the sound of rain. I was watching CNN but it was getting too depressing. So, I had to throw in some mind candy and it is now on E!. The Emmy's are tonight and I will be watching that to see if the Office wins their categories. I won't be able to watch the home thing -- but I will flip and watch some!!!

Later!!!

Nothing Much to Report!

Okay, I really don't have much to post. I am sore and I am very tired. I am just waiting until I can go home and take a nap. Very sad, really! I worked out so hard yesterday I just can't walk. The good news is that I can do 100 push-ups. Not consecutively -- I did have to break in between sets. But still, it was 100. And I did them correctly (in, what Mike terms, girl pushups). I am just having a hard time moving today.......

Other than that, nothing too interesting has been happening. There have been no visits to Ghost Bar or Cool River -- although I do have Cool River pics but they are on my home computer. I will get those posted soon. I haven't even taken my spinning class this week. Don't worry they have them every day. It will get in this week!!! Brian's band is playing this weekend and I am deciding whether to go. I probably will though -- I haven't ventured to Denton in awhile.

Okay, well gonna run! Have a great afternoon.

My new clothes!

Yeah, I went shopping today and now I have jeans that actually fit me! It is a good feeling and will definitely keep me at the gym. I was a bad girl today and didn't go in, but I am going to hit the spin class tomorrow morning. All is not lost! It is so nice to actually be in jeans that are the right size. They don't look so baggy and I don't look so unkempt!

I am waiting for Mike to come pick me up for dinner so I thought I would come and get a post in. We are having dinner with a former co-worker of his. I am looking forward to it. They picked Outback Steakhouse..... he did ask if that was okay for me and I said yes. Don't want anybody to think he was insensitive to his crazy, vegetarian girlfriend! I was actually looking at the menu and I have a few options so I am not worried. Really, I can always find something to eat.

Last night, Jon and I hung out for awhile. He was running late coming over so we did miss the movie, but he had the great idea to go get Thai food! I hadn't had Thai food in a long time. When then came back to my place and watched some movies. We did a lot of laughing over My space pages and the internet in general. It was really rather cool just to hang out with him and relax.

Okay, think the man is about due to the apartment so I am going to finish getting dressed. I hope he hurries because there is nothing on TV and I am getting hungry!

later!

It's Friday!!!

Yay!!! And only 45 minutes until I get to go home. It hasn't been too hard of a day. A lot of people are out of the office so it has been kind of quiet. I am actually trying to find an eye doctor -- any recommendations for Dallas eye docs would be appreciated. I hate just pulling some name off a website! I do need to see one soon though because my contacts are starting to give me problems.

So, last night we head out again and meet Natalie, her friend Amanda and Nat's new man, Jim at Cool River. I have some cute pics that I will be posting once I download this weekend. Mike's co-worker, Jason, stopped by and so we all hung out! It was a lot of fun, although I am very tired right now. Amanda was so cute -- the guys started talking about fighting, so we split off to talk girl talk. She told me she thought Jason was cute. Which he really is a cute guy. I had just never thought to set him up with her (I do have to add that I just met Jason that night...... the one problem with myspace and email is that you really feel like you know the person when you have never actually met!!!). She is a great gal, but I had only actually met her Tuesday! (Again, knew of her threw Nat and saw her myspace, so I kept having to remember that I really didn't know her!) So, I told her we could definitely do something about that. I know he likes her, and at last conversation she liked him, so it might just be a connection. And they would actually look cute together. I'll keep ya posted! It was a great evening, I am just feeling very tired today.

This weekend will be nice and calm. I hope...... I am going to see a movie with Jon tonight and then tomorrow I am shopping! I have nothing that fits and it is very much needed. Again, good problem, but I will be hitting Kohl's for those interim clothes! I am not sure if I am seeing Ryan tomorrow or not. He has a meeting at our normal time so no 8:00 wake up for me! (Actually, I might just hit the yoga class....). We were going to try and do later, but he hasn't called yet. No biggy, I'll just work out on my own. Just need to know!

Have a wonderful weekend. Once I get my pics downloaded (and the Ghost Bar pics from Amanda), I will post!

My Night at the Ghost Bar

My friend Natalie knows everybody. It is absolutely amazing. And she knows people who can get you into places. So, last night, I allowed her connections to get us on the list for Ghost Bar, the new bar in the W hotel. This is apparently where all the pretty people of Dallas hang out... at least for now! One of her friends was working a party there so through her, we were able to get in. I am not sure what would have happened had we tried to get in as "normal people"!

First of all, I was having a clothing crisis. No idea what to wear and nothing fits anymore. While this is a good problem to have (everything is too big), it doesn't help when you need to look pretty hot. So, I finally decided on an outfit while Mike patiently waited on the couch. My hair wasn't behaving, my clothes weren't behaving. It was annoying. He has learned to just sit back until I stand in the living room, with keys in hand, announcing it is time to go. Pretty safe bet for him. Luckily, he is easy going.

We get there and Mike knows the bouncer! They apparently worked together a few years back, although at the time they couldn't place where they knew each other. We go in and have to wait behind the rope for the elevator (yeah, don't ask......). The bar is on the 33 floor of the W hotel, so up we went. Inside was pretty amazing. We have pictures so once Natalie sends them to me, I will post them. It was the best place to people watch. I even ran into someone I worked with at Canon -- and it was someone I never thought I would see there! It was so random. The Ghost Bar has a balcony that is see through all the way around so you can not only see out over Dallas, but you can see below you as well. I don't know how it was made, but it was pretty cool! The other balcony just had the glass view over Dallas, not under your feet.

We only stayed for a few hours but it was a pretty fun experience. We took pictures, walked around, ended up talking to some strange drunk woman about belly button rings and carrot juice. (I know how we started on the belly rings, I have NO idea where the carrot juice came into play.......). I didn't see anything too outrageous to mention here, just a lot of the "pretty people" dancing around and having a good time.

Okay, so that was my evening. Had a reassement with Ryan during my session and have lost inches and a few pounds. That is a very good thing! My hips are starting to budge some more. I am close again to another weight goal so that keeps me motivated. The only problem he sees is that I keep losing muscle mass so he upped my calories to counteract my spinning classes. I don't understand the science of it all, it just works in the end. That is all I care about. I will let him worry about why the body does what it does!

Have a great day!

Fun Weekend

Well, the rest of the weekend went pretty well. Mike and I had dinner with my parents at Boco De Beppo in Dallas. It is a great Italian restaurant -- family style like Maggiano's . There was a lot of food!!!! I have spaghetti for the rest of the week. Seriously........ Mike liked my family and the family seemed to like him too, so all is good! We ended up just watching a movie afterwards, because after pasta and wine, you really don't want to move too much!

Sunday, we did get to see "Talladega Nights". It was a very fun movie. Will Farrell just kept me in stiches. The theater was PACKED! I don't think there was actually an open set. We ended up sitting on the 3rd row!!! That made it rather interesting, especially during the race scenes.

Sunday night, Mom and I went to see "The Full Monty" at a local theater. I have to tell you, I haven't had that much fun at a theater event in a LONG time!!!! Theater Three is a small, intimate theater in the round so you really get to see the actors up close and personal. And we sat on the front row, so it was definitely up close and personal! It was a very "naughty" comedy so don't go if you are easily offended! But I thought it was absolutely hysterical and the actors were so good. And they do pull off the last scene very well,considering it is a theater in the round! Just think back to the movie and you will understand what I am talking about.:-) I really did laugh until I cried!!!

So, today is Monday and I start another week. I am sure it will be a good week -- we'll just keep that mantra going!!! Have a good one!

A Gym Pet Peeve

Why do people insist on using their cell phone while they are working out at the gym!?? They can't be getting any type of good work out in if they do that. Today at the gym, Ryan and I were trying to do the leg press and there was this woman sitting there, on her cell phone, not even pushing. And when she was pushing (only like 30 lbs), she was still on the darn cell phone. Come on, we are obviously in the middle of a set and she is just taking up space! Ryan did ask to work me in, but when we came back again, there she was, sitting on the same machine. Not doing anything, talking on the cell phone. Ryan wasn't as nice this time getting her off. I am sure she complained about him. But, truthfully, it wasn't like she was in the middle of a hard set and really pushing herself. She then went and started talking to another person at the gym. Okay, you know what, if you don't want to maximize your time at the gym, get the heck out of my way, because I do. The gym is the one time you will NOT get me on my cell phone. Don't even try. It is hidden in the locker or trainer office. On silent. I will get back to you in an hour!!! :-) Okay, got that off my chest! (It was a great workout by the way!!!)

Have a wonderful Saturday!!!!

The Weekend is Here!

Wow, it is finally Friday. I am glad it finally got here! I know I shouldn't wish time away, but well, weekends are always much better!

Yesterday, I went to a conference in Farmers Branch for work. It was pretty interesting -- I learned a few things that go on that don't have anything to do with my particular function. The funny thing of the day was that I had to run by Canon to pick up something. Not important what at this particular part of the story :=). I walk in and first of all, the downstairs is just completely tore up. I don't really care why until the security guard tells me she isn't sure she can tell me what is going on. Um, well, now I want to know! Kelly doesn't come out to see me since she is in a training class and then another lady comes downstairs to greet some other people in the lobby. This woman IGNORES me. Now, we weren't best friends when I worked there, but she needs to be a respectful person and acknowledge I am in the room. As I leave, I say HI and she goes all saccharine on me. Whatever. It was just a very odd experience. It was like I was some security threat or something. I laugh because I have access to a lot bigger things than that darn building!

The Art of Exotic Dancing group that I took my workshop through last year is doing a dance series at one of the local studios on Wednesday nights. I started last Wednesday and had a blast! There are 3 more weeks. I like the series version better than the workshop (3 hours/one day). I hadn't done it in awhile and so I was still a little self conscious, but it is nice to get that feeling of standing straight and walking with purpose. Women forget to do that and we could all use reminders! Plus, you really work your thighs when you do moves in heels...........

Mike and I are having dinner with my Parents on Saturday night, so that will be fun. He is out of school until the 28th and I am soooooo happy. I told him I am going to be very protective of my time with him in that time period!!!! (And he is okay with that :-)). I think tonight I am going to Michelle's to hang out. I haven't seen her in forever so it will be nice.

Later!

Okay, so I am not a morning person

I was going to try and do the unusual and actually get up early and go to the gym. Mike did what I asked and texted at 5:15 to make sure my booty actually got out of bed. He texted, I actually did get up and then well, promptly laid back down. After it was clear I was going to miss the Spinning class, I figured since I was up I would do cardio anyway. Yeah, well that never happened either! I don't feel so bad because I have my training session with Ryan tonight. And it isn't like that was the only spinning class this week. I think there are like 5 or 6 more. I can get it in. (And Mike hasn't asked if I went to the class, he just knows I woke up at that time :-)).

There is nothing really to report. We had a nice weekend, but poor Mike has finals this week and so he was slightly distracted. And we didn't get to Talladega Nights because it was sold out. We saw Pirates of the Caribbean instead. I really did like it, but I forgot the warning that it was a super long movie -- and ours started at 10:05 PM...... So, we got home very late. I am going to treat Mike this weekend to Talladega Nights this weekend in celebration of summer classes being over.

I have to get a few things done before our special visitor arrives today. The Assistant Secretary of the DOL (OSHA's big guy) is coming to the office and well, we gotta look presentable :-).

Have a wonderful day!

In favor of new things

This morning I tried my first Spinning class at the gym. I have to tell you, as much resistance as I put into actually taking the darn class, I found I really kind of loved it! Once I got over the whole "how the heck are you supposed to adjust this thing!" and got started, it was great. I am convinced I sweated out those two pounds I was trying to get rid of. So, yes, while I thought Ryan was crazy for telling me I had to go, I really do like it and it will be a new part of my cardio rotation. I just won't admit that I really liked it to Ryan. He would gloat that he was right.......:). Some guys in the class said this instructor wasn't as intense as some of the others, so I am eager to see what they are like. I might just go tomorrow and get on a Sunday spinning schedule.

Last night I tried the Hip Hop class. It confirmed what I already thought -- that I have no rhythm. No one else did either, but we had soooooo much fun!!!! It was actually a class full of newbies, so that made it less intimidating. If I have a chance to go on Friday nights to the class, I will, but sometimes people want to meet while the class is still going. It is more of one of those fun things I will do to move my body, but the cardio punch isn't there (unless I was really good at it and was practicing it over and over), so it can be an add in. I start a dance class on Wednesday nights at another studio, so that will be my dance for the week anyway! I have found that you can talk to more people in the classes than just on the cardio machines. And when I am with Ryan, I don't have an opportunity to interact with anybody else (besides the other trainers).

Well, that is it for today. I am going to get some stuff taken care of today before I meet up with Mike this evening. I am not sure what we have planned - probably the new Will Ferrel movie. Okay, Simon is meowing like crazy again, so I need to see what he wants!

Have a wonderful Saturday!!!

It's Friday!!!!

This has been an awfully hard week to get thru. Nothing bad has happened, I am just very happy it is Friday! I am going to venture off my boring elliptical path tonight and try to take a hip hop dance class at the gym...... I will let you know what bone I break when I trip over my own feet :-). I didn't pack my stuff to go to the gym right after work, so I figured I might as well wait to go until the class starts. Nobody knows me there and Ryan will be long gone, so I can't make a fool out of myself in front of him (like I don't do that often enough anyway.......). Speaking of Ryan -- today is his birthday. A wise ol' 24. Yep, he's still a baby :-). Anyway, happy birthday to him. And no I didn't get him anything. He might get a text message this afternoon! He, he!

Well, all is a little better today in the office. I have been working on an issue so I really haven't been tuned into anything else that is going on anyway. Friday's are always quiet here -- esp. during the summer, so that means I can get some stuff done.

Another bizarre note: I read a headline that stated Pat Robertson is now a "convert" to the concept of Global Warming. The fact that I agree with Pat Robertson on anything might just be a sign of the end of the world.......... I can't say he is a nut job on this issue. That frightens me :-).

Well, have a happy Friday. I plan to have a nice, quiet one. Mike and I do not have big plans and I am okay with that. I think we are going to see the new Will Farrell movie -- I have heard it is pretty funny. Will is great in anything so I am sure I will enjoy it!

Later!

The joy of friends

I was thinking today that I am so blessed to have such good friends who love me no matter how silly I get or what mistakes I make. I had to deal today with the worst group of women who would rather tear each other up and talk behind each others back than support them and work out issues. I try to stay out of their negativity and total childish behavior. However when it is near you for 8 hours a day, it can't help but infect you. I am lucky that I have Mia and Jen right at my finger tips on email. Michelle doesn't have regular access to email so I can't always chat with her. And now I have Mike to support me through days like this. He listens (or reads, I should say). And then, he tries to make me laugh. Which he succeeds at often! So, I am here to thank my wonderful friends for being supportive, beautiful influences in my life. I made it through the day and got in a good workout. And I get to see Mike after his test tonight, so I am very happy!!!

The Office is on so I am going to watch that!!! Later!

Wednesday.. oh boy.....

I really don't think I have too much to report. It is Wednesday and life is still good. I had a good workout with Ryan last night and am in a fair amount of hurt! We switched up the workout again, so I am not doing those "power workouts" anymore (at least for awhile). Well, I kept asking yesterday if we could go back to them! He kicked my booty just a tad. Always a good thing, but he did get death stares yesterday :-). I still have to have to get in a spinning class this week - he made that one of my cardios. I am not looking forward to it, but gotta get it done. I will tell you if I survive it :).

Not really much else to report. Work is going well, except for some reason, this week seems to be negative week! All the people at work seem to be doing a lot more complaining than normal. I stay in my little cube and ignore them, but sometimes they just seep in and I want to tell them all the hush!!!! Oh well. I will just let them be. They will reap what they sow and if they put that negativity into the universe, they will get that negativity back! Plus, it is kind of funny to watch them act like 12 year olds.

Well, later!

My Weekend

It has been hard to get into the swing of things this morning. I have accomplished some stuff, but I am still so tired. I might actually get out for lunch and take a walk to the Bank of America building to get the blood flowing. It only feels like 93 degrees, according to yahoo weather -- so I will only sweat a little :-).

So, the weekend was very good. Friday, I slept and slept. I don't find that at all wasteful. I was tired! Saturday, I did my normal workout with Ryan and ran some errands during the day, along with brunch (more like very late lunch) with my mom and brother. Saturday night, I had dinner with Mike's mother, sister and brother in law. It was the brother in law's birthday and they were celebrating at Maggiano's (hadn't been there in forever. It was soooo good!). Mike didn't really understand this, but I was just a little nervous meeting the mother and sister. Come on, the two important women in his life meeting another potentially important female is a big deal. He didn't get it :-). I kept fretting over what to wear, but I have to say, I was presentable and looked good :-). The dinner went well, and from what I understand, I got thumbs up. I really liked the family so all is good. (In case you are wondering, his father passed away several years ago. That is why there is no mention of him.)

Sunday he spent studying and I ran more errands and cleaned my apartment like there was no tomorrow. However, that statement really doesn't make sense, because if there was no tomorrow, I sure as heck wouldn't be cleaning :-). I finally got some big things crossed off my list so I felt very productive. We then went to Mia and Brian's house for dinner. Mia made some awesome pasta and homemade bread. It was all so good! She is such an awesome cook! We had a great time at their house and of course, Mike got thumbs up from them. Like there was any doubt :-).

Well, time to get back to the grindstone. I have some letters to produce this week so I need to get going on them. Those fun letters that I have to keep every legal consideration in mind. Not as fun as writing a persuasion paper :-). But that is why they pay me! Later!

I am going to brag right now......

I just got back from the gym (because, really, with Mike in school during the week, that is all I have :-). J/K of course!!!). Met with my other man, Ryan, and went through my normal workout. I ended up doing 210 lbs on the leg press!!!! Okay, so it was only 5 reps, but man, I was proud!!!! Okay, enough bragging:-). I met a gal during my warm up who just started working out with a trainer. She was pretty nice. She was asking me who my trainer was because she might be switching to another one. I said all these great things about Ryan -- and she pretty much figured I liked him since I had been with him so long. Anyway, we get started and I tell him that my lower back has started hurting. And he shrugs his shoulders....... I almost hit him. He was kidding of course and we did a stretch that would help the back. I guess if he doesn't talk to me or joke with me, then I should worry!

So, not really much else to write about. Jen is home from her vacation and we are happy to have her and David home safe and sound!!!! I can't wait to see pictures!!!

later!

The Weekend!

The trip to Austin was so much fun! Mia and I got a late start on Friday morning, which was totally okay. Her Chihuahua, Paco, had wasn't feeling well and she wanted to make sure the little guy was stable before we headed out. Paco is the canine version of Simon. Just about as crazy :-). I saw Mike, got some errands run, and updated my ipod, so I thought I was having a productive morning. The drive down was pretty good.

We checked into our hotel and tried to settle in. Mia calls me and tells me there is a weird smell in her room so I checked it out. Yes, there was definitely something wrong! I took one sniff and walked right out! She changed rooms and then we got ready to go to Barton Springs. If you have never been there, you must go! It is a natural spring that has been formed into a swimming pool type area. The water is 68 degrees (from what I understand, it is that all year round!). Yes, going from 100 degree heat to 68 degree water puts a shock on your system, but not if you go in gradually. It felt so good and really cooled us off. We did a little swimming and then laid out a bit. Aveeno sun screen really works. You can't tell I got any sun!!!! I am still pale :-).

After Barton Springs we went back to clean up. By the time we got back to the hotel, the band had arrived. Perfect timing! We decided to get ready to go eat and hit 6th street. Apparently the humidity in Austin, the soft water and the lack of a hairdryer actually make for great hair conditions. I thought I was going to have to shave it all off, but it ended up looking pretty good - not just my conceited opinion. Mia said I should wear it that way more often. I just don't think I can replicate it!

We decided to take a cab to 6th Street since the guys weren't leaving for awhile and traffic/parking was a pain. We ended up with the rudest cab driver ever. Bad, bad customer service. There was no tip for him....... Any way the restaurant we wanted had an hour wait. And the band started playing in an hour, so that wasn't going to work! We ended up at a Mexican food place near the club where the band was playing. It was actually really good! The guys had just started playing when we got there (yes, we even got called out on being late by the lead singer.......). I thought they played great. All in all, a fun time on 6th Street. I guess I don't remember it as jumping during my college years as a visiting Aggie. It was pretty interesting!

The rest of the weekend wasn't as exciting as that. Sunday I spent some time at Borders where Mike was studying. We talked a little and then I just went and found magazines to read. It was nice to just be there with him. I had to leave to get my hair done. Now I am a tad blonder than I was before! Natalie came over and did the highlights. The rest was spent watching a movie with Mike and eating the yummy Central Market food he brought over. We ended up watching "Transamerica". That was a great movie! I was having a hard time convincing him that Felicity Huffman is actually a very beautiful woman. When I showed him her picture, he was amazed at her transformation. She had an amazing performance in this movie!

Okay, it is almost time to hit the gym. I slacked off yesterday so I need to hit it hard today!

Later!

It's Mini Vacation Time

Woohoo! Today was my Friday and I can tell you I am so happy. It was a long day. I can truly say I have become someone they now can throw things too. I juggled all day but it was all good. The frustrating part was I had to deal with the same idiot all day long. She just wouldn't go away. I had to be at the gym at 5:00 so I did what I could and left in time to get there and changed. It was a great work out and got out all those frustrations of the day! Ryan continues to kick my booty and all is good. I even hit my weight goal this week so that was nice considering last week's frustrating weigh in. I am back on track!

Welp, I am off to Austin tomorrow and I am looking forward to the trip. I will get some pics to post of all the fun! I will be home Saturday but I am not sure what the rest of the weekend will hold. We will see! I know some of that time will be with Mike, but who knows what else we will do.

Have a good evening and a happy Friday!

Tuesday Update

There really isn't too much to report these days. I had a nice, relaxing weekend. Jen and I had dinner at a great place called Cafe Madrid. So, so yummy. Mia was supposed to join us, but she was running late and ended up having to drop out at the last minute. We will just have to go back so she can enjoy the yumminess of that place. I ended up seeing 2 movies this weekend: "The Devil Wears Prada" and "Strangers with Candy". Both were very good. I loved the book so I was happy to see that they did a great job on "Devil". And "Strangers with Candy" was just freakin hilarious! I need to see it again because I think there was a lot I actually missed. I actually cooked dinner this past weekend too. I hadn't cooked in a long time and it was nice to actually be in the kitchen. It is just very hard to cook for myself. So, Mike gets to be my guinea pig :-). He did like the Vegetarian Rice Tacos. I have a new recipe to try out on him this coming weekend. This will be fun :-).

Mia and I are headed to Austin on Friday morning to see Saints and Sinners there on Friday night. I can't wait. It will be fun to head down there, even for one night. I am sure I will have lots of great stories!

Well, that is it for now! Later!

The Dental Hygenist is my friend.....

Or so I kept repeating this morning as she was poking sharp metal objects in my mouth. I know it is a necessary evil and I want to keep my great teeth in my head, it still was the least amount of fun all week. I would rather be on an elliptical for an hour. Going fast the entire time. And then have a 'Ryan' workout. I was in pain, let's just say that (it will teach me to floss more......). Oh, and NEVER have the Strawberry flavored fluoride -- that stuff leaves the nastiest after tastes! I can usually handle the other flavors, but never, ever again with this flavor!!!!!

As I was checking out, I had an interesting situation come up. They called to check the status of my eligibility since I just got this insurance. The front desk was told that while I became eligible for insurance on June 1, I didn't have eligibility in the month of July. Um, huh???? That is a new one for me. I ended up paying out of pocket and came back here to talk to my company benefit help desk. She was pretty helpful, but she had never heard that happening either! So, I am awaiting a call so we can get this sorted out. No reason to have insurance if I am going to have to shell out for the whole darn thing!!! I will keep you updated.

Other than that, there is nothing new to report in the last 24 hours. Tomorrow night, I am meeting Jen and Mia at Cafe Madrid for dinner. I haven't been there forever! It is a great Spanish restaurant with Tapas and awesome Sangria. I will be a good girl (mostly) since I have to work out in the morning with Ryan, but I can have one glass. "Stranger's With Candy" opens this weekend too. I can't wait to see that! Amy Sedaris is so funny and totally amazing as this character. Mike and I going to see it this weekend since we were both fans of the Comedy Central show when it was on the air. I will have to shell out for the DVD set next pay period.

I am a bad girl, I know

I know, a week and a half. Really, no excuse. I am sure everyone wants to hear about my workouts, work situation and all that fun stuff :-). We did a re-assessment yesterday at the gym. NOT GOOD!!!! I have no idea what the heck happened. I even went up in body fat. After like two measurements, Ryan wouldn't even let me look at the numbers because he knew I was getting upset. He didn't want me to get discouraged but it was too late. I know it is a temporary set back, but it was just frustrating. I work my butt off and my body was not reacting. So, we tweaked things and I should be set back on track. I lost some of my calories -- apparently I can't have 1800 anymore.......... But we then had a good workout, I felt motivated and back on track. So, here goes!!!

I have started to date a new guy. I can't believe I am even mentioning him so early in the 'process' since I always have the fear of jinxing it! I really do like him and so we'll see. It has only been a week, so that is all you get!

Jen 'officially' asked me to be a part of her bridal party yesterday. I guess since she finally "came clean" yesterday in her blog (seriously though, who didn't know she was talking about a wedding :-)), I can write about the honor of being asked to stand with her while she marries David. Okay, I am getting weepy so I won't type anymore! But, I am so thrilled she has found the man she will spend the rest of her life with. And David is a very good guy. I will have to start a different blog for any Bridezilla stories :-). (If I can travel to Paris with this woman, than I think we will be okay though. I am guessing no bridezilla stories....)

In sad news, a family friend passed away last week. His funeral is today but I am unfortunately unable to attend. However, my thoughts and prayers are with the family.

Talk to you later.

Oh, quiet Monday Morning!

Yes, I am at work, but it is kind of slow this morning, so I thought I would post while I had some time. :-). It was an uneventful Sunday but that is totally okay. I actually found myself addicted to the Twilight Zone Marathon on the Sci Fi channel. I didn't want to turn the tv off and go to sleep! I forgot how good the stories are in that series. It is great writing and some of them just freaked me out! And yes, if I had been off today, I might have just stayed in my pjs and watched all morning. (It is on through tomorrow). There were several that were favorites so far, but one I watched before I feel asleep just really made me think. I am surprised I didn't have strange dreams:

A lady in white is on a horse and she is riding through a meadow. She is beautiful, young and full of hopes and dreams. Enter a lady on a black horse. She is older, a little more "worn". She sees the lady on the white horse and starts chasing her, yelling out her name. Young Ann doesn't understand what she is saying and runs off scared. But wouldn't you be too if some lady in black was chasing you -- on a black horse no less!!! It turns out her tattered future was trying unsuccessfully to warn her youthful past about the mistake she was about to make. The one that would throw the family in financial ruin (basically, she marries the wrong man......). You have to watch it to get the whole story because it gets a tad long for a blog -- at least if I want to give you all the nuances of it.

Okay, I guess I need to get some work done. I am leaving work at 12 today then headed to the gym for cardio. As long as it is still working, I will keep up the dreaded elliptical!

Later!

Passing out at the gym is never a good thing

Okay, well, I didn't completely black out, but I did get dizzy and was unable to make it through the full workout. Ticked me off too! Ryan was very sweet about it but I was still kind of irritated. We had moved my session to 8:00 AM and so I don't think I ate enough to sustain myself through the "power" workout. I did get abs and stretching done, so it wasn't a total lose. The stretching wasn't actually planned but I pulled a hamstring and kind of made him stretch the leg back since he could get a better stretch for me by pushing the leg. And of course, I had to do the other leg. So, I did get something done, but it still disappointed me that I only got half way through the second set! Apparently people can end up throwing up through this "power" session, so I should be happy I only got dizzy! And I now know that if I move the session to 8 AM, I really need to get up even earlier to eat way more!

Oh well, I need to get going. I have to do some cleaning and then off to a yoga class. Stretching really needs to be incorporated into my workout routine with the cardio and training sessions. So, yes, I will be working out everyday now!!!

Later!

A new level of hurt

I just got back from the gym and my work out with Ryan. Today we started this thing called EET. I have no idea what the initials stand for (he has told me several times). In reality, it is a new level of butt kicking. You basically go through sets with much heavier weight and quicker than you would normally do (since the weight is 85% of what you can normally do, you can only do 5 reps). He says it burns about 10 calories a minute, you can only do about 30 minutes so that is 300 calories in the session (wow, I can do math!). I feel that "good" burn right now. I was thinking of doing cardio either before or after the sessions, but if we are going to keep that up for 4 weeks, there is no way I can do that. I would kill myself. I have this feeling I will be hurting tomorrow, but it is all good. It was the first time in awhile I had called him evil. In front of his boss. :-) The boss said that was a good thing. I was starving afterwards, but I was a good girl and got a salad from Baker's Bros. The kitties needed food too, so I had to go close to the PetsMart! I did buy them a toy, but they are ignoring it and sleeping........

Other than that, all is good. I have been in cranky mode since I had a hive attack last week. Um folks, I only get stressed when you ask me if I am stressed (which most people believe cause the hives). It is only a trigger -- although I really wasn't stressed so I don't think that was my trigger. With the heat and allergins in the air, I might have to contend with hives more often. It stinks since I hadn't had a break out in a few months!!!! Yeah, you know I am excited.......

Later!

Hump Day

Well, I do have to say I was disappointed that the Mavs weren't able to force a game 7, but I was proud of the team for making it as far as they did! I wasn't a big basketball fan before the playoffs but the Mavs definitely have a new fan!

So, today was a pretty normal day. I am discovering how the government works first hand. I am working on an issue and I have pretty much talked to 5 or 6 different people. One person sends me to the other. It might be the fact that I was just handed this and am pretty much figuring it out myself. Everyone is very nice about things, and I really just have to laugh. The only thing I can really discuss about my current projects is the Bird Flu Summary I have been working on. I am now a bird flu/pandemic flu expert so ask me anything :-). (And really, it does have something to do with my job)

I think tonight will be movie night. Working out kind of took it out of me. And for some reason, I am having some serious hives this week. The time on the elliptical helped ease them a bit, but rest might be another good thing.

Okay, gonna run. In case I don't get to blog early enough in the day tomorrow, I want to wish Jen a Happy Birthday for Thursday!!!!! Do like me and celebrate as long as possible. Oh, and my brother is coming home tomorrow night from China for good! I know he will miss China, but it will be cool to have him back in the States.

I can't watch

But I will!!! Argh. Back in Dallas. GO MAVS!!!!!! That is all I have to post today!!!

Later

It isn't over yet!

The Mavs are in a hard position right now. They lost that 2-0 lead and now it is 2-2. Okay, so the last game, they got spanked. I think it might be the kick they needed to re-focus. I surely hope so. I haven't given up hope though!!! Go Mavs!!!! It appears that they tend to win when I don't watch, so I might just flip back and forth tonight and not intently watch. I know -- supertitious of me :-).

This has been a pretty good weekend. Friday night was girl's night with Mia and Jen. We went to Monica's (great Mexican food) and then to the Velvet Hookah. I hadn't been there since last year -- I had forgotten how cool the place was. Now I don't remember the martini's costing so much, but I guess a girl needs to splurge sometime. Oh, yeah, and I got my belly button pierced. I was thinking about getting one anyway since I lost all that weight and my abs are starting to look the way I want them too. It really didn't hurt at all -- a bikini wax hurts more! So, at 34 I am starting to be cool :-).

Yesterday I got an ab kicking by Ryan (as opposed to a butt kicking). I think we talked too much during my ab workout though. Oops. We didn't get much of the other things done. That is okay, I really do feel it today. I guess Tuesday I should just keep my mouth shut and just get it done. He gets paid the same no matter what I do and I still hurt the next day, so it all really works out. Mia and I went to the mall Saturday night and had a blast. No tattoos or belly button piercings, but I did get a great new pair of shoes. I am kind of holding off buying new clothes because I am in between sizes and I just want to make sure I get a few more pounds off and they fit right. But the shoes rock! We had dinner at PF Changs (oh so good!) and just hung out.

My parents are coming over tonight for dinner (Father's day present). And then it is time to re-focus and get ready for the upcoming week. I start working out with Ryan 3 times a week starting now and that will hopefully get me to my goal and I can cut the cord so to speak. Well, I will probably keep him around, just won't see him 2x a week! I probably should just focus on the here and now with that though.

Later!

GO MAVS!!!

Wow, 2 and 0. I am pretty darn excited. I am going to watch the game tonight with Michelle in Irving. Haven't seen her in about a week, so it will be cool. Ryan is still sick, so there was no butt kicking tonight. I actually pulled out my Carmen Electra Strip Aerobics DVD. I hadn't done it in awhile. It was kind of nice to do dance moves -- it stretched out all those sore muscles. Dancing works you out in whole different ways and I truthfully was getting just too used to that darn elliptical. I do hope he feels better on Thursday, mostly for selfish reasons because I need a good weight workout :-).

I sat through a morning Worker's Comp class. I know, very exciting. And not only WC, but Federal WC. Yes, even more exciting. The teacher did a great job and I did learn some stuff. I will be the WC queen in all due time. Hey, gotta be good at something :-).

Okay, time to get ready for the game. You know, look cute, but not look like you tried. Always, always fun!!! Jeans and a t-shirt go far (it is always cold in the place we are going, so jeans are necessary. Maybe even some winter clothes!!).

Later

Lazy Sunday

I have pretty much slept all day. Very, very lazy day. I worked out hard yesterday and I am going to blame that :-). Poor Ryan wasn't feeling very good yesterday so it wasn't a normal butt kicking. I still got a work out, but I was kind of worried about him! I told him I was expecting a butt-kicking on Tuesday. I am still sore, but it wasn't our best session. Luckily, since I am an established client, I understood. Salsa, however, did kind of kick my booty. Dancing in 3 inch heels will do that to you. We learned turns and the right one was not working for me! You have to do this pivot thing and I just wasn't getting it. Well. It felt like I was about to fall down every time! Slowly, it worked. Once we sped it up, man, I was all over the place! It will take practice, but I will get it down. There is a Salsa Social on June 23. That should be fun. Mia and I plan to go and get some practice in.

I went to see "The Break-Up" on Friday night and I thought it was pretty good. I laughed a lot and it was just a nice end to a week. Jen looked stunning, as usual. And Vince was hysterical. Loved them together.

Well, I have to run. Have a great Sunday evening!

GO MAVS!

As I type, the 1st game of the NBA Finals are beginning. I will try to watch it all. It depends on how stressed they make me. I feel Dallas can take it all, I just have to take breaks from the action!!!! I am a dork, I know :-).

Okay, I have to admit something. I knew that the Branglina baby pics were being published in People tomorrow. Now, we all know how I feel about these two...... but I thought, might as well take a peak at the little bambino. I took a look at People.com and there she was with momma and daddy (no commentary of the relationship......). Well, um, she's a baby all right. I don't know what I was expecting. Maybe a halo considering how heralded her birth was. She is a cute baby. No halo. Chloe was actually cuter at birth (and still so absolutely beautiful, by the way!). I know I am biased because Chloe is family, but I stand behind my statement. So, media, let Angie do her goodness and let them raise the baby in peace. Shiloh isn't saving the world. Let's just let her be a baby. And while I am on the subject of baby pictures, does anyone find it weird that we have not seen any pictures of Tom and Katie's baby. You would think that would be just as hot as baby Branglina. I have a theory on that whole thing, but I will keep it to myself.

So, other than surfing the net looking for baby pictures, there is really nothing much going on. Work is picking up. I am learning more and more each day and it is all pretty cool. I love the fact that I work with a lot of knowledgeable people who I can just learn from. I work with a woman who knows this stuff like the back of her hand -- she doesn't even have to look it up the books, she can just tell me where to look and there it is. I like that. I haven't even heard anything from my old co-workers. I even sent an email to Mary to give her my new email address. Last week. I have yet to hear from her. Yeah, I guess they miss me a lot. Eh, I have a good place now and I am much happier. They can stew in their disfunctional relationship with the client.

Mom and I are going to see "The Break-up" tomorrow night. Can't wait! I don't think I can get her to go see the Omen (actually, I can't get MYSELF to see the Omen. I will see scary movies, but movies dealing with the devil are way out of my realm of wanting to see. I can explain all that later!).

Later!

Progress

We did a re-assessment tonight at my session. In the last 2.5 weeks I have lost 2% body fat and gained a pound a muscle. It was pretty cool. My hips still haven't budged - it is weird since my clothes are fitting looser. Oh well. I will take it. All that time of the elliptical has paid off!! I am pretty tired right now. I was going to watch a movie but I think I might hit the bed early. I should have all this energy from working out and eating right, but truthfully I am just tired all the time!

Later

Not really too much to report. I had a good weekend. After working out with Ryan (still sore, by the way) I went to Salsa lessons. I was supposed to meet Jen and Mia there but they had emergencies come up and couldn't make it to the studio (at least they weren't abducted by aliens which was my first thought :-)). While all we did were the basic steps, it was still tiring and made my legs hurt. I am looking forward to learning more and getting good at the dance!!! I rested Saturday afternoon and then that night watched the game with my neighbor. She had stopped by to pay a huge compliment -- she had seen me leaving that morning and wanted to say how great I looked. Seriously, you never tire of hearing that! After the Mavs WON (Go MAVS!!!!), I headed out to meet some friends at a local club. I stayed out a little too late and was pretty useless Sunday. Sunday was Mom and Dad's Anniversary, by the way! 35 years -- woohoo!!!

Well, that is my Monday report!

Later

Salsa! (The Dance not the condiment)

I was at the gym today and what new class have they added (kind of gave it away in the title!). Salsa is coming to my gym. I was so happy I almost didn't see Ryan when he was leaving the gym for his break. Now, you know I was really excited! I am not sure how you do salsa as a gym class but we will see. I will be there next Thursday night! And it is a fun new way to do cardio. Seriously, the elliptical is starting to bore me. I am seeing results so I keep at it. And along with the salsa lessons on Saturday with Mia and Jen I will have alternatives to the elliptical cardio workout.

I had a whole entry yesterday and when I went to publish it, it disappeared. Where it went, I have no idea. But I guess you will never know about my weekend now, will you :-). It was good, by the way. And I found a swimsuit that covered my belly but showed off my back. It was actually pretty cute. I was happy.

I had lunch with my dad today at a cute little sandwich place in downtown Dallas. I never would have gone there had he not shown me. And they have a great grocery store next door. It is close enough to power walk to during lunch (only have 30 minutes) and get some things. Since it is getting hotter and hotter, I really don't see myself doing that anytime soon. I have this feeling downtown will be a scorcher.

Well, I guess that is all for today. Worked, worked out, now relaxing. I might go out tonight but not too late. Geesh I am getting old :-).

Go Mavs!!!!!!

Well, I guess nothing interesting has been happening since last Saturday! I can't post at work and sometimes at night I am just too tired. It really has been a low key week. I went to watch the Mavs on Wednesday night with Michelle. We lost, but that is okay. I get this feeling this series will come down to the last possession on the 7th game. It will freak me out and stress me out! I watched last night, but it was the last few minutes. I seem to be in a movie weekend now though. I just finished watching "Fun with Dick and Jane". It was very cute. I do recommend it. And it was very timely with the Enron juries returning guilty verdicts this week (in the movie, Dick's company goes under due to some seriously unethical leadership). And the last line of the movie was pretty freakin funny. I also watched "Derailed". I was kind of disappointed in the movie, but it did have some twists that I didn't see coming.

No Ryan today. He is on vacation this weekend so I got somewhat of a break. He wasn't sure I could survive without him, but I convinced him I'd be fine. Actually, I just think he didn't want to drive to Houston..... Probably had nothing to do with me :-). I did do cardio this morning. I hate cardio though. I would much rather be but through a booty kicking for an hour than 30 min. on that elliptical. But I am getting closer to my goals, so I have to keep it up. Darn swimsuit season....... Speaking of which, I do have to go buy a new one this weekend. Monday's plan is to hang out by the pool all day with Michelle and her friend Megan. I have already bought the sunscreen in anticipation. But that is also why I will be on the elliptical machine tomorrow and Monday morning. If I just go when I wake up, I will have it done for the day and I can go on with my life.

Later!

Great Accomplishment

I did another assessment today with Ryan and the push is actually paying off. It doesn't seem like it is toooooo much but any progress toward a goal is a good thing. I was down 3 lbs, lost some inches in the hard to budge hips and even lost a little more in the neck (that one always makes me laugh when he measures it. Seems like he is trying to strangle me). I dropped a percentage in body fat. I didn't gain any muscle, but that is okay. So, this is a good platform to remember that my goals are attainable and that it is all in my control. I have even cut down the alcohol consumption because those are evil calories. We had a good workout today, but it was my third time to see him this week, so we did kind of take it easy (well, as easy as he will let me get away with :-)). There was no holding me down in a lunge position while I tried to hit him........

Work is going great. I am soooooo happy now. Everyone is very nice and I actually feel like I can use my brain. And, again, it is HR stuff. Wow, what a concept. It was kind of slow this week, but I am sure once everything gets into full swing, I will not have moments in my day where I am actually bored. I have this feeling, beginning next week, I am going to be just trucking along. I have done a lot of reading on the government and their HR policies, grievance procedures and all the intricate things I need to remember. It definitely will be a challenge, because there are so many things to consider and consequences to each action we propose. I have a good resource in learning this stuff and you can bet I will take full advantage of it. I have learned more about the government in this past week then I have in my entire life (and I have a Political Science degree!). Really, those .gov websites are full of very interesting things (and this is all the stuff that is available to the public). You really should check that stuff out..........

Well, I am going to rest and then take Mom to a movie this afternoon. Since I had to leave last Sunday (Mother's Day), she kind of got gipped in the mommy day stuff. So, today is movie and dinner.

Oh, Michelle's birthday was on Thursday, but I didn't post that day, so happy belated birthday to her!!!!!!! We had sushi last night in honor of the big day. :-)

Later!

Ouch, Ouchy

Okay, I have never said a bad thing about Ryan even though he kicks my booty every week. Today, I actually got as close as I have ever to hating the boy. He HURT me. He was holding me in the lunge position and while it is a "good burn" it still hurt like freakin heck!!!!!! I was seriously close to actually crying (I had to hold it for 25 seconds. Doesn't seem long, but trust me, this hurt). I liken it to the 10 mile hike. Yes, I feel a sense of accomplishment, but I won't admit it that same day. I made it through, tried not to curse him out and made it home in time to watch American Idol. I think I might need a bubble bath before the season finale of Law and Order:SVU. That and lots of ADVIL!!!!!!

I went to VA on Sunday and orientation was on Monday. I was very impressed with the orientation process. It was one of the best I have sat through. Even better than those I have created......... And while I didn't see a lot of the area, it was very much in love with all the trees on the way from the airport to the hotel. I flew back last night and was actually rather nauseous. It was a smooth flight too. I don't know what happened. I woke up feeling much better. And I had full access to the computer today. All is good. I have meetings this week with the OASAM (don't ask -- I can't remember what it means). They are the HR department and I will be working closely with them. It is good to get in good with them!!!!

Okay, bubble bath time. Later!

Still going good!

Yes, my second day was as good as my first. I still don't have computer access, but really, who does on the first or second day on the job! I got my space a lot more organized today and kind of feel like it is my cube now. Plus, I might was well get everything organized now since once I get going I might be begging for time to make files!!!!

This will be short since I need to go get ready for dinner with Mia and Jen. It will be very nice to see the gals! I know they will appreciate baby pictures :-). I did my cardio so I am now more awake. It is amazing how tired I was today and yesterday after working all day. Being off for a week kind of throws you out of the rhythm of working 8 hours a day. I am lucky I had 2 days and then a weekend!

Well, off to decide what to wear!!!!

Oh, I am so happy!

My first day is officially over and I am home and happy. I think this was a good move and I will be there for a long time. I did a lot of reading today (good thing I know how to do that :-)). I met everyone in the office and they all seem very nice. And I started trying to figure out how it all fits together. It might take a few weeks (months maybe) but I will get it all down. And the commute is pretty nice. 18 minutes, door to door. I might not even take the train -- that would take longer really. And apparently there is a program where I can take parking money out pre-tax and save money. I will know more about that next week. If I get off work at 4:30, I can drive to the gym, get my cardio out of the way and then be home by 6ish. Very cool!!!

Other than that, nothing much to tell. I am kind of tired so I think a nap is in order. The Office has its season finale tonight and so that is my only big thing planned :-). Don't worry, I will do the cardio after that is over.

Later!

No, Really, I have an excuse!!

I know it has been forever since I wrote, but I was on vacation. Yes, my cousin had a computer, but I was on vacation from everything!!!

Baby Chloe was absolutely beautiful in person. It was fun to see her and the rest of the family. It was a pretty nice trip to CA. I went hiking on Saturday. Um, 10 MILES!!!!! It was a pretty view at the top, but 5 miles up hill takes it out of you. I was proud that I had the stamina, but body parts were trying to revolt. I still won't admit to Aunt Gail that I had a sense of accomplishment though :-). The hike caused an outbreak of the hives, but I kept popping allergy pills.

Aunt Gail, Mom and I went to the wineries in Jackson, CA on Sunday. I had always gone to Napa Valley so it was cool to see new ones. The first winery, which thankfully I don't remember the name of, was kind of bad. The first few tastings I did the "icky" face. You know, when you taste something bad. Gail reminded me that I probably should have turned around (away from the winery workers) if I was going to do that face. It wasn't subtle :-). All the other wineries we hit were great! I stocked my wine rack and I am good for awhile. I kept finding things I liked!!! The best name for wine that we saw was the "Brayzin Hussy Red". The winery was called the Bray. It has the best label too!

I start my new job tomorrow. I ran errands today and cleaned the apartment. I do feel ready for this next chapter in my life! My old job has already called me for 2 different things..... Okay, I think it is nap time. I already worked out today with Ryan, so I am all good. He was bright and early this morning. I thought when I set the time, I would get to sleep early enough the night before. Not so much. I couldn't fall asleep but really needed to see him this morning, so I went anyway. Kicked my booty, but it was worth it as always.

Later!

Getting Ready

I have my exit interview in 20 minutes. Not sure what they are going to ask and I am not sure exactly how honest to be :-).

I am also getting ready for my CA trip. I truly can't wait. I haven't been out there in a long time. And I swear, Chloe gets cuter every picture I see of her. I just want to hold her for the days I am out there.

Funny thing happened at the gym yesterday. I was training with Ryan. In the middle of our session, the electricity goes out. Apparently the entire block was out. Since I was in the middle of a shoulder press, I just kept going. They weren't kicking people out yet, so we just kept going. While it was getting a little hot (no air), I actually had a good workout. I even got a shoulder rub. He hit some good pressure points and I was a happy camper. I did, however, accidentally hit him with the leg machine. It was dark -- we'll blame that. I felt bad, but he swears I didn't hurt him. They finally started kicking people out right as we finished training -- it was really getting hot in there so I don't blame them. I am sure the liability rises during times like that!

Well, I have got to run. I think I have finally finished all the projects that need to be done for Mary and I have Wanda comfortably sitting in my chair. I might actually get to do the "I am leaving" slacking for a bit.

Later!